The company Ecocopter will strengthen ongoing efforts by adding six helicopters to the firefighting operation against forest fires in Chile. These will join the Mc Donnell Douglas DC-9 tanker from Erikson Aero Tanker, which has been operational in the South American country since December 1, 2023.
The National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) publishes daily updated figures on the 2023-2024 fire season, with a record of over 1714 forest fires in Chile, affecting approximately 15 thousand hectares.
The General Manager of Ecocopter Chile, Armando Weinberger, emphasized: «At Ecocopter, we contribute to the need for aerial resources in combating forest fires through state and forestry entities, incorporating top-level aircraft, high technology, and efficiency for these emergencies, which have been exacerbated by the climate crisis.»
«Both the government and the private sector have promptly activated mechanisms to have the appropriate means to prevent a tragedy of proportions. With our experience, international partners, and awareness of the urgency of this need, we aim to contribute by collaborating from the air with world-class helicopters and aircraft,» added Weinberger.
The DC9 from Erikson Aero Tanker is supporting emergencies in the regions of Valparaíso and Metropolitana. In the coming days, two SuperPuma AS332 L2 helicopters will be added to operate in firefighting missions in the Biobío and Araucanía regions.
The SuperPuma AS332 L2 has the capacity to release up to 3,500 liters of water and has a flight autonomy of 3 hours. It is equipped with a firefighting system that operates with a Heli Bucket for water loading with the possibility of sequential discharges. Additionally, the aircraft can transport 16 firefighters or crew members.
Chile will also receive two Kamov helicopters equipped with a Heli Bucket system with a capacity of 5,000 liters. Unlike the SuperPuma, this aircraft can perform water or retardant discharges.
Mauricio Neira, Forest Manager of Ecocopter, stated: «The presence of these helicopters in Chile provides assurance and demonstrates how the government and the forestry industry are preparing to face the emergency in the best possible way, preventing such catastrophes from spreading and being controlled with fast, versatile, efficient aircraft and world-class crews.»
Finally, Chile will have two Erikson Aircrane helicopters, considered the largest and most efficient globally in their type. These aircraft will be tasked with protecting urban and industrial centers in the southern-central regions of the country, working to advance the fire and prevent it from spreading to populated areas.
Francisco Arriagada, Commercial Manager of Ecocopter, declared: «For this season, we have consolidated a top-level fleet with these six helicopters known worldwide for their effectiveness in firefighting, in addition to the Erickson Aero Tanker DC9 plane and five Airbus H125 light helicopters.»
«Each of the aircraft has experienced pilots and crews with a team of mechanics, engineers, and logistical support, providing security to ensure that operations are successful and fulfill the purpose of protecting citizens and the environment,» added Arriagada.
